Neighborhood guide with realistic budgets, rental advice, trusted agencies, and the best areas for International residents living in Dakar.
Average monthly rent
Depending on area
Almadies, Plateau, Sacre-Coeur, Mermoz, N’Gor, Yoff
Standard caution
Dakar is a compact city but its neighborhoods feel very different from each other. Choosing the right area will define your daily life — proximity to the sea, to coworking spaces, to schools, to the airport. Here is an honest overview of the main areas where International residents live.
Almadies is the most popular area for International residents, diplomats, and affluent Dakarois. It sits on the western tip of the Cap-Vert peninsula, with ocean views and beach access. The neighborhood is clean, safe, and well-maintained
Good restaurants, supermarkets (Casino, Auchan), and easy access to the Corniche. Downside: higher rent (600-1,500 EUR for a 2-bed), and relatively far from downtown. Ideal for: families, remote workers, long-term International residents. Average rent: 2-bed 700-1,200 EUR.
Le Plateau is the historic downtown — Dakar’s business heart. Close to government buildings, the port, and public transport hubs. Older building stock, more urban noise, and heavier traffic. Rent is moderate.
Best for: entrepreneurs, solo International residents who need to be central, those without a car. Average rent: 1-bed 300-600 EUR.
Mermoz and Sacre-Coeur are residential neighborhoods popular with middle-class Senegalese families and International residents who want a local feel without the tourist-area markup.
Quieter than Almadies, good schools nearby, decent supermarkets. Average rent: 2-bed 600-1,100 EUR.
N’Gor and Yoff are beach communities north of Almadies, with a more relaxed fishing village atmosphere. Very popular with digital nomads and long-term International residents who value proximity to the sea and a slower pace.
Some roads are unpaved. Good options for furnished apartments at better prices. Average rent: 1-bed 350-700 EUR.
Les Mamelles (near the African Renaissance Monument) is an elevated neighborhood with panoramic views. Growing in popularity with International residents. Good value compared to Almadies. Average rent: 2-bed 600-1,000 EUR.
2-bedroom apartment
Use our verified agencies directory (link below), International residents Facebook groups, and Dakar property sites. Consider hiring a concierge to search on your behalf if you are not yet in the country
Apartments are rarely rented sight-unseen by serious landlords. Plan a 1-2 week exploratory trip, or use a trusted local intermediary.
Prices are often negotiable, especially for longer leases. Do not accept the first price offered. Paying 6-12 months upfront can unlock a 10-20% discount
Ask for a written lease (contrat de bail). It should specify: rent amount, payment schedule, deposit, duration, and maintenance responsibilities. Have it reviewed if you are not comfortable in French.
Standard is 2-3 months rent as a security deposit (caution). Get a receipt for every payment.
Take photos or video on arrival to protect your deposit on departure.
Our concierge has done it hundreds of times.
Studio or 1-bed in Plateau, Yoff, or Ouakam. Minimal amenities. Shared building. Far from beaches.
2-bed in Mermoz, Sacre-Coeur, or N’Gor. Good condition, secure building, often with generator backup. This is the sweet spot for most International residents.
3-4 bed villa or modern apartment in Almadies or Les Mamelles. Sea view, pool, garden, security. Standard for families and senior executives.
Download the complete checklist as PDF — enter your email and we’ll send it instantly.
Get personalized relocation support, verified housing recommendations, and help negotiating your rental in Dakar.